Special Features

2. BMW 335d

Though it has always offered diesel powerplants in Europe, BMW brings its diesel game back to the U.S. in the form of the 335d sedan. Given the 3 Series’ status and legendary performance, if any car can turn Americans on to diesel power, it would be this one.

The 2009 BMW 335d looks just like any other 3 Series. Unlike what we see with most hybrids, there are no massive badges or stickers proclaiming this sedan’s eco-friendly status. Power comes from a 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six rated at 265 horsepower and a massive 425 lb-ft. of torque. It is said that the 335d takes just 6.2 seconds to go from 0-60, and the car is estimated to return 23 mpg city, 33 mpg highway.

Just like the Mercedes-Benz, the BMW 335d uses a full BlueTEC system, though here it is called the Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance. The urea solution (called “AdBlue”) needs to be refilled at regular intervals, but BMW will perform the service free of charge as part of its 4-year/50,000 mile maintenance program. Right now U.S. buyers can only get the diesel engine in the sedan; here’s hoping a coupe version isn’t too far off.